Plant Operations Leader: Lean, Safety & Growth

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary

Annual bonus

Medical aid

Robust retirement fund

Leadership development programs

International exposure

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Plant Operations Manager to lead a Pietermaritzburg facility in KwaZulu-Natal. The role oversees production, engineering, quality assurance and supply chain, with a strong focus on safety, environmental compliance and cost effectiveness.

The ideal candidate will drive operational excellence, implement best practices, and inspire a high-performing team across departments. Hybrid work model with on-site leadership and remote oversight is offered.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in manufacturing operations management with 5+ years in a managerial role.
• Proven track record of improving plant efficiency, reducing costs and improving quality.
• Expertise in Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma or equivalent.
• Strong financial acumen: budgeting and P&L responsibility.
• Excellent leadership and communication across functions.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic plans to hit production and quality targets.
• Manage budgets, control costs, and optimize resource allocation.
• Oversee maintenance and upgrades of plant machinery for optimal performance.
• Implement and monitor health, safety and environmental policies.
• Lead and develop a high-performing team of managers and staff.
• Drive continuous improvement using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Ensure compliance with local and international regulations governing manufacturing.
• Collaborate with R&D, sales and marketing to align production with demand.
• Manage supplier relationships and maintain a reliable supply chain.
• Report plant performance and insights to senior management.

Skills

Leadership

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

Budgeting

Communication

ERP / SAP

Education

Bachelor's degree (Engineering or Operations Management)

Master's degree preferred

Tools

SAP

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Plant Operations Manager to lead a Pietermaritzburg facility in KwaZulu-Natal. The role oversees production, engineering, quality assurance and supply chain, with a strong focus on safety, environmental compliance and cost effectiveness.

The ideal candidate will drive operational excellence, implement best practices, and inspire a high-performing team across departments. Hybrid work model with on-site leadership and remote oversight is offered.